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New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Due to Foot Injury

Khashif Sarfraz
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New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Due to Foot Injury

New Zealand has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out due to a foot injury. Ferguson, who was part of the initial 15-man squad, will be replaced by Kyle Jamieson for the tournament.

Ferguson’s Injury and Absence

Ferguson had been included in New Zealand’s squad for the tri-series tournament in Pakistan after competing in the UAE-based International League T20. However, he didn’t play in the Tri-Nations series involving Pakistan and South Africa. After joining the squad, Ferguson complained of soreness in his right foot following New Zealand’s warm-up match against Afghanistan on Sunday.

A subsequent medical assessment confirmed that Ferguson would be unable to participate in the tournament.

Gary Stead, New Zealand’s head coach, expressed disappointment over Ferguson’s absence, stating:
“We’re really disappointed for Lockie. He’s a key part of the bowling group and brings a lot of major tournament experience. We know how much he was looking forward to representing New Zealand at another major event. We wish him well for his recovery and hope he is back firing soon.”

Jamieson’s Return to the Squad

Ferguson’s injury has opened the door for Kyle Jamieson to make his return to the Black Caps squad. The 30-year-old has not featured for New Zealand since February 2024, following a back injury during their Test series victory over South Africa.

Stead highlighted Jamieson’s potential, stating:
“Kyle brings plenty of pace and extra bounce, which will suit the conditions here in Pakistan. He’s shown since returning in the Super Smash how effective he can be in the shorter forms of the game. He’s bowled with real pace and energy, which is what you’re looking for from a pace bowler, especially at a pinnacle event.”

With Jamieson’s recent successful spells in the Ford Trophy, New Zealand feels confident he will be ready to contribute if called upon during the tournament.

Looking Ahead

New Zealand will be hoping to adjust to Ferguson’s absence and rely on their bowling depth, with Jamieson expected to fill in admirably. The Black Caps are gearing up for what promises to be a challenging tournament.

England and Australia Arrive in Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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England and Australia Arrive in Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The build-up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is heating up as the England and Australia cricket teams touch down in Pakistan ahead of the tournament’s start on February 19.

England’s Arrival and Squad Overview

The England cricket team arrived in Lahore, marking the start of their preparations for the eagerly awaited tournament, which will be held across four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. The squad, led by captain Jos Buttler, consists of 31 members, including players, coaching staff, and support personnel. Key figures like Brendon McCullum (head coach) and Robert Key (managing director) are also part of the contingent.

England is placed in Group B alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and Australia. Their tournament will kick off with a high-stakes encounter against Australia on February 22 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. They will then take on Afghanistan on February 26 in Lahore before finishing their group-stage fixtures with a match against South Africa on March 1 at Karachi’s National Stadium.

Despite a challenging India tour where they lost both T20I and ODI series, England is looking to rebound with a strong squad, including stars like Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, and Joe Root. The team is full of potential, and the hope is to build momentum through their group matches in Pakistan and push for the knockout rounds.

Key Players and Squad Details

England’s squad is a dynamic mix of experience and youthful energy. Key players to watch include:

  • Jos Buttler (captain)
  • Jofra Archer
  • Joe Root
  • Harry Brook
  • Brydon Carse
  • Ben Duckett
  • Jamie Overton
  • Adil Rashid
  • Mark Wood
  • Liam Livingstone
  • Saqib Mahmood
  • Phil Salt

This diverse squad is well-equipped with both batting and bowling prowess, and they will be eager to prove themselves in the upcoming tournament.

Australia’s Arrival and Team Setup

Meanwhile, the Australian team also arrived in Lahore yesterday, split into two groups. The first group, which included captain Steve Smith, along with coaches and support staff, flew in from Colombo via Dubai. The second group, consisting of 15 players and two additional support staff members, followed the same route and reached Lahore later the same day.

Australia’s Squad and Tournament Outlook

Australia will face tough competition in Group B, and their squad is eager to perform after missing some key players due to injuries. With Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood all absent, the team will rely on players like Steve Smith, David Warner, and Glenn Maxwell to lead the charge.

The clash between England and Australia on February 22 promises to be an exciting spectacle, with both teams vying for supremacy early in the tournament.

England’s Fixtures for Champions Trophy 2025:

  • February 22: England vs. Australia, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
  • February 26: England vs. Afghanistan, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
  • March 1: England vs. South Africa, National Bank Stadium, Karachi

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: A Tumultuous Build-Up and Exciting Rivalries Await

Khashif Sarfraz
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: A Tumultuous Build-Up and Exciting Rivalries Await

The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on Wednesday, marking the first global cricket event hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades. However, the tournament’s build-up has been far from smooth, with the competition split between Pakistan and Dubai, and off-field controversy surrounding England’s match against Afghanistan.

Pakistan’s Role as Co-Host

This event is historic for Pakistan, which will host a global ICC tournament for the first time since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka. After a devastating attack on the Sri Lankan team in 2009, international cricket was suspended in Pakistan for several years. However, security improvements have allowed the return of international teams, and this Champions Trophy marks a major step forward. Karachi and Rawalpindi will host the games in Pakistan.

India’s Absence in Pakistan

However, India, due to long-standing political tensions, will not play in Pakistan and will instead have their matches in Dubai, UAE. This decision came after a lengthy impasse, resolved in December 2024, when the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that India’s games would take place in the UAE. If India reaches the final, it is likely to be played in Dubai rather than Karachi.

Key Matches and Teams to Watch

The Champions Trophy will feature 8 teams split into two groups:

  • Group A: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh
  • Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan, South Africa

Each group will send two teams to the semi-finals, which will be held in Dubai and Lahore. The opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand in Karachi on 19 February kicks off the tournament, followed by the high-profile clash between India and Pakistan in Dubai on 23 February.

England’s Controversial Match Against Afghanistan

Off the field, England faces calls to boycott their match against Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s ban on women in sport. Despite more than 160 British politicians advocating for a boycott, England Cricket Board chairman Richard Thompson emphasized that the match would go ahead, believing that a unified global response would have more impact than individual actions.

Key Players and Teams to Watch

India enters the tournament as favorites, bolstered by their all-round strength, despite the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and some inconsistent performances from Virat Kohli. Pakistan, the reigning champions, will rely on their unpredictable nature, while New Zealand, with a well-rounded squad, and South Africa, with their potent pace attack, are also expected to be strong contenders.

Meanwhile, Australia, despite winning the 2023 World Cup, will be without key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, leaving them vulnerable. Afghanistan, led by the explosive Rashid Khan, could once again cause upsets after their impressive showing in the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Looking Ahead

The Champions Trophy 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament with plenty of drama both on and off the field. As the opening match approaches, fans across the world are eager to see how the teams will fare in these unpredictable conditions.

India Faces Setback with Bowling Coach Morne Morkel’s Departure Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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India Faces Setback with Bowling Coach Morne Morkel’s Departure Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have been disrupted by the unexpected departure of Morne Morkel, the team’s bowling coach. Morkel, who joined the Indian setup in August 2024, left the squad in Dubai and returned home due to personal reasons, with speculation suggesting that the reason could be the passing of his father.

Absence of Key Figures in India’s Bowling Attack

Morkel’s sudden departure leaves India with some key concerns, as their bowling lineup has been facing issues. Mohammed Shami, one of their main fast bowlers, has been struggling with form, and with Jasprit Bumrah missing from the squad, the team’s bowling depth is further tested.

Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana are also part of the squad, but both lack significant experience in ODIs, leaving the Indian bowling attack under pressure heading into the tournament.

Training Disruption

Morkel, who had been with the team since 15 February in the UAE, attended a training session on 16 February at the ICC Academy, but was notably absent from the session on 17 February. Reports indicate that he flew back to South Africa soon after. It remains unclear whether he will return in time for the Champions Trophy.

India’s Champions Trophy 2025 Squad

Despite these setbacks, India’s squad remains formidable on paper, with Rohit Sharma leading the side. The full squad for the tournament includes:

  • Rohit Sharma (C)
  • Shubman Gill
  • Virat Kohli
  • Shreyas Iyer
  • KL Rahul
  • Rishabh Pant
  • Hardik Pandya
  • Axar Patel
  • Washington Sundar
  • Kuldeep Yadav
  • Harshit Rana
  • Mohammed Shami
  • Arshdeep Singh
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Varun Chakravarthy

India’s squad will now need to adapt quickly as they gear up for their opening match against Bangladesh on 20 February, with a training session scheduled for 19 February after a brief break.

Matthew Kuhnemann Sits Out Sheffield Shield Match Amid Bowling Action Test

Khashif Sarfraz
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Matthew Kuhnemann Sits Out Sheffield Shield Match Amid Bowling Action Test

Australia’s spin bowler Matthew Kuhnemann will not play in Tasmania’s Sheffield Shield match against South Australia, as he is set to undergo tests on his bowling action following a report from match officials during Australia’s recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka.

Bowling Action Reported

Kuhnemann’s reported action has caused a stir, especially after his impressive performance in the Sri Lanka series, where he took 16 wickets. Despite this, match officials flagged his bowling action as potentially illegal, prompting the need for further examination.

Long-Standing Injury Impact

Kuhnemann, who had been expected to feature in the Shield match starting on Tuesday in Adelaide, was ruled out on Monday due to a long-standing thumb injury on his non-bowling hand. The injury, which required surgery after he broke his thumb playing for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League earlier in January, had not been fully addressed despite Kuhnemann playing through it during the Test series against Sri Lanka.

ICC Testing Looms

With his omission from the Sheffield Shield match, Kuhnemann now faces testing on his bowling action, with International Cricket Council (ICC) officials expected to examine him at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane.

Support from Teammates

Kuhnemann’s case has sparked a wave of debate, especially given his previously spotless record across more than 100 professional matches, including five Test matches and four one-day internationals. Steve Smith, who captained the Australian side in the absence of the injured Pat Cummins, expressed confidence that Kuhnemann would be cleared after the testing process.

Tasmania captain Jordan Silk also voiced support for the bowler, praising his contributions to the national team.

“He has obviously had a fantastic couple of weeks away with the Aussie side, and was a big factor in them winning that series over there,” Silk told Australian media on Monday. “It’s come as a shock to a lot of people, but all we can do as an organisation is wrap our arms around him and look forward to having him back around the group.”

What’s Next for Kuhnemann?

As Kuhnemann prepares for testing, the cricket world eagerly awaits the results, with his teammates and fans hopeful that his bowling action will be cleared and he can return to action soon.

Mohammad Yousuf Weighs in on ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s Edge in Home Conditions

Khashif Sarfraz
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Mohammad Yousuf Weighs in on ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s Edge in Home Conditions

As the excitement builds ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, legendary Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf has shared his thoughts on the tournament, highlighting New Zealand and India as the most balanced sides but emphasizing that Pakistan holds the advantage of home conditions.

Balanced Sides: New Zealand and India

Yousuf believes that New Zealand and India are the most well-rounded teams heading into the tournament. He praised New Zealand’s depth, pointing out that their squad is tailor-made for subcontinent conditions.

“They have a well-rounded squad suited for subcontinent conditions. Their lineup includes three quality fast bowlers, good spinners, and a solid top six in batting. Their wicketkeeper is an all-rounder, and they have two spin-bowling all-rounders as well,” Yousuf said, acknowledging the balance New Zealand brings to the table.

Similarly, he acknowledged that India also boasts a strong and balanced team, with players capable of performing across all departments.

Pakistan’s Home Advantage

While he sees New Zealand and India as favorites, Yousuf believes Pakistan can leverage the advantage of playing in home conditions. He pointed out that the familiarity with the pitches and the support of the home crowd gives Pakistan a unique edge. However, he stressed the need for strategic play.

“Pakistan has the edge because they are familiar with the conditions. However, they must play calculated cricket throughout the tournament,” said Yousuf.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also been praised by the former Test great for successfully renovating all the stadiums in record time, which has added to the excitement surrounding the tournament.

“I am very excited, like any other Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event,” Yousuf remarked. “Kudos to the PCB for completing these renovations in just six months.”

Strategic Play and Handling Spin

Yousuf offered some insightful advice to the Pakistan team, urging them to focus on rotating the strike and handling spin effectively, especially on turning wickets. He emphasized the importance of finding gaps against spinners and minimizing dot balls.

“We have played on turning wickets recently, so we need to find the gaps against spinners, rotate the strike, and minimize dot balls. In the tri-series final against New Zealand, we struggled to dominate their spinners in the middle overs,” he said, offering a crucial tip for the team in the upcoming tournament.

Expectations on Scores

Yousuf also shared his expectations regarding match totals, based on pitch conditions. For double-paced pitches, he anticipates a competitive total of 300, while on flat tracks, he believes teams should aim for 350-400 runs.

“If the pitch is double-paced, a total of 300 will be competitive. However, if it’s a flat track, teams should aim for scores between 350 and 400,” he concluded.

Pakistan’s Path to the Final

As defending champions, Pakistan will open the tournament with a clash against New Zealand on February 19 at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi. Following this, they will face arch-rivals India on February 23 in Dubai, before playing Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.

With home advantage, a deep squad, and Yousuf’s words of wisdom, Pakistan will hope to defend their title and make the most of their home support as they embark on their Champions Trophy journey.

Key Batters to Watch in ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Key Batters to Watch in ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025

As the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 draws near, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the exciting performances of the world’s best batters. With explosive strokeplay and tactical mastery, these players are set to light up the tournament. Here’s a closer look at some of the top contenders:

Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)

  • Matches: 85 | Runs: 3627 | Average: 46.50 | High Score: 210 | Centuries: 11 | Fifties: 17

Fakhar Zaman, often regarded as Pakistan’s best limited-overs opener since Saeed Anwar, has the ability to turn the tide of a match in mere moments. His standout moment came during the 2017 Champions Trophy, where he smashed 114 runs against India in the final, leading Pakistan to their first-ever tournament victory. After a period of injury and illness, Fakhar has made a comeback in the Tri-Nation series, and Pakistan will rely on him to spearhead their batting efforts.

Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)

  • Matches: 45 | Runs: 1765 | Average: 50.42 | High Score: 134 | Centuries: 6 | Fifties: 7

Daryl Mitchell, the batting all-rounder for New Zealand, has emerged as a key figure for his side. His adaptability, particularly in Asian conditions, was on full display during the 2023 World Cup, where he amassed 552 runs at an impressive average of 69. Mitchell’s strength lies in his ability to accumulate runs with elegance, combining cuts, drives, and leg-side shots to build pressure on the opposition. His role will be vital in New Zealand’s pursuit of their first Champions Trophy title.

Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa)

  • Matches: 58 | Runs: 2074 | Average: 44.12 | High Score: 174 | Centuries: 4 | Fifties: 10

Heinrich Klaasen’s aggressive approach to batting can overwhelm opposition bowlers. Rather than accumulating runs, Klaasen takes the attack to the bowlers from the outset, using his power and finesse to find gaps and clear the boundary. His performance in the recent Tri-Nation series demonstrated his match-winning potential, scoring two half-centuries. Klaasen, alongside fellow middle-order batters like Kane Williamson, will be critical to South Africa’s success in the Champions Trophy.

Shreyas Iyer (India)

  • Matches: 65 | Runs: 2602 | Average: 48.18 | High Score: 128 | Centuries: 5 | Fifties: 20

India’s middle-order star, Shreyas Iyer, has grown into one of the team’s most reliable batters. With a solid technique and an ability to accelerate the run rate, Iyer’s role has become increasingly crucial in recent years. His match-winning performances, including a series of important knocks against England, underscore his growing influence. Iyer’s ability to perform under pressure makes him a key player for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, especially with senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli facing inconsistent form.

Ben Duckett (England)

  • Matches: 19 | Runs: 831 | Average: 46.16 | High Score: 107 | Centuries: 2 | Fifties: 6

England’s explosive opener, Ben Duckett, is tasked with providing his side with fast starts at the top of the order. With an average close to 50 and a strike rate well over 100, Duckett has proven himself as a dynamic presence in the shorter formats. His partnership with fellow opener Phil Salt forms a dangerous left-right combination, capable of setting up huge totals in Pakistan and UAE, where the conditions favor attacking batters. Duckett’s role will be key in ensuring England sets competitive targets.

Conclusion

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 promises to showcase some thrilling cricket as these batters, each with their unique style, look to take their teams to glory. Whether it’s the attacking power of Fakhar Zaman, the stylish composure of Daryl Mitchell, or the aggressive onslaught from Heinrich Klaasen, expect these stars to light up the tournament with memorable performances.

IPL 2025 Schedule Announced: Eden Gardens to Host Opener and Final

Khashif Sarfraz
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IPL 2025 Schedule Announced: Eden Gardens to Host Opener and Final

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick off on March 22, with Eden Gardens hosting both the tournament opener and the final. This marks the first time in a decade that Kolkata will host the IPL final, with the last instances being in 2013 and 2015.

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), champions of IPL 2024, will open their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in an exciting evening clash. The final is scheduled for May 25, promising a thrilling conclusion to the 65-day tournament.

Playoff Venues and Schedule

While Eden Gardens will also host Qualifier 2 (May 23), the other two playoff matches will be played in Hyderabad, home of 2024 runners-up Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

  • Qualifier 1 – May 20 (Hyderabad)
  • Eliminator – May 21 (Hyderabad)
  • Qualifier 2 – May 23 (Kolkata)
  • Final – May 25 (Kolkata)

Tournament Format and Team Groupings

Like previous seasons, IPL 2025 will have 74 matches across 13 venues, including 12 double-headers. The 10 teams have been divided into two groups:

Group 1:

  • Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
  • Rajasthan Royals (RR)
  • Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
  • Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Group 2:

  • Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
  • Delhi Capitals (DC)
  • Gujarat Titans (GT)
  • Mumbai Indians (MI)
  • Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Each team will play every other team in their group twice, while they will face four teams from the opposite group once and one team twice.

Key Matches and Venues

  • March 23 Double-Header:

    • SRH vs Rajasthan Royals (Hyderabad)
    • Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (Chennai)

  • Punjab Kings’ Three-Match Home Streak (Dharamsala):

    • PBKS vs Delhi Capitals (May 4)
    • PBKS vs Mumbai Indians (May 7)
    • PBKS vs LSG (May 11)

  • CSK vs MI Rivalry Matches:

    • March 23 (Chennai)
    • April 20 (Mumbai)

What to Expect from IPL 2025?

With the return of iconic rivalries, new emerging talents, and the intense competition for playoff spots, IPL 2025 is set to deliver another action-packed season. Fans can expect high-octane cricket, strategic team rotations, and some unexpected twists as teams battle for glory.

Stay tuned as the race for the IPL 2025 trophy begins!

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Team Guide, Fixtures & Players to Watch

Khashif Sarfraz
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Team Guide, Fixtures & Players to Watch

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to deliver thrilling cricket action as eight teams compete for the prestigious title. From Pakistan’s lethal pace attack to Afghanistan’s historic debut, here’s a breakdown of each team’s prospects, key players, and fixtures.

🏏 Group A Teams

🇧🇩 Bangladesh

🆚 Fixtures: India (Feb 20, Dubai) | New Zealand (Feb 24, Rawalpindi) | Pakistan (Feb 27, Rawalpindi)
📌 Coach: Phil Simmons | Captain: Najmul Hossain Shanto
🔹 Best Finish: Semi-finals (2017)

🔹 Key Strengths: Taskin Ahmed leads the bowling attack after a record 25 wickets in the BPL.
🔹 Key Concern: Missing Shakib Al Hasan’s bowling weakens the squad.

🎯 One to Watch: Taskin Ahmed – Bangladesh’s pace spearhead, in red-hot form!

🇮🇳 India

🆚 Fixtures: Bangladesh (Feb 20, Dubai) | Pakistan (Feb 23, Dubai) | New Zealand (Mar 2, Dubai)
📌 Coach: Gautam Gambhir | Captain: Rohit Sharma
🔹 Best Finish: Champions (2002, 2013)

🔹 Key Strengths: Experienced squad despite Bumrah’s injury.
🔹 Key Concern: Lack of match exposure for mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.

🎯 One to Watch: Harshit Rana – Replaces Bumrah, carrying immense pressure.

🇳🇿 New Zealand

🆚 Fixtures: Pakistan (Feb 19, Karachi) | Bangladesh (Feb 24, Rawalpindi) | India (Mar 2, Dubai)
📌 Coach: Gary Stead | Captain: Mitchell Santner
🔹 Best Finish: Champions (2000)

🔹 Key Strengths: Batting stability with Kane Williamson.
🔹 Key Concern: Inexperienced pace attack post Southee-Boult era.

🎯 One to Watch: Kane Williamson – Back in top form with big scores recently.

🇵🇰 Pakistan

🆚 Fixtures: New Zealand (Feb 19, Karachi) | India (Feb 23, Dubai) | Bangladesh (Feb 27, Rawalpindi)
📌 Coach: Aaqib Javed | Captain: Mohammad Rizwan
🔹 Best Finish: Champions (2017)

🔹 Key Strengths: Lethal pace attack featuring Shaheen, Naseem, Rauf & Hasnain.
🔹 Key Concern: Lack of spin options beyond Abrar Ahmed.

🎯 One to Watch: Babar Azam – Needs to rediscover form as Pakistan’s top-order anchor.

🏏 Group B Teams

🇦🇫 Afghanistan

🆚 Fixtures: South Africa (Feb 21, Karachi) | England (Feb 26, Lahore) | Australia (Feb 28, Lahore)
📌 Coach: Jonathan Trott | Captain: Hashmatullah Shahidi
🔹 Best Finish: First appearance

🔹 Key Strengths: World-class spinners Rashid Khan & Mohammad Nabi.
🔹 Key Concern: Batting depth remains questionable.

🎯 One to Watch: Azmatullah Omarzai – Averages 95.11 when he crosses 5 runs!

🇦🇺 Australia

🆚 Fixtures: England (Feb 22, Lahore) | South Africa (Feb 25, Rawalpindi) | Afghanistan (Feb 28, Lahore)
📌 Coach: Andrew McDonald | Captain: Steve Smith
🔹 Best Finish: Champions (2006, 2009)

🔹 Key Strengths: Despite absentees, young talents offer unpredictability.
🔹 Key Concern: Major stars missing – Cummins, Hazlewood, Starc, Marsh & Stoinis.

🎯 One to Watch: Spencer Johnson – Once a gardener, now a rising pace star!

🏴‍☠️ England

🆚 Fixtures: Australia (Feb 22, Lahore) | Afghanistan (Feb 26, Lahore) | South Africa (Mar 1, Karachi)
📌 Coach: Brendon McCullum | Captain: Jos Buttler
🔹 Best Finish: Runners-up (2004, 2013)

🔹 Key Strengths: Pace duo Jofra Archer & Mark Wood return.
🔹 Key Concern: Weak middle order & limited spin options.

🎯 One to Watch: Liam Livingstone – Crucial all-rounder in a fragile lineup.

🇿🇦 South Africa

🆚 Fixtures: Afghanistan (Feb 21, Karachi) | Australia (Feb 25, Rawalpindi) | England (Mar 1, Karachi)
📌 Coach: Rob Walter | Captain: Temba Bavuma
🔹 Best Finish: Champions (1998)

🔹 Key Strengths: Strong bowling attack with Rabada & Jansen.
🔹 Key Concern: Inconsistent form (lost 8 of last 11 ODIs).

🎯 One to Watch: Marco Jansen – All-rounder and SA20 Player of the Tournament.

🏆 Tournament Outlook

💥 Pakistan’s fiery pacers, India’s veteran squad, Afghanistan’s spin maestros, and Australia’s young guns will shape the tournament’s high-stakes battles.

⚡ Key Matches to Watch:
✔ Pakistan vs. India – Feb 23 (Dubai)
✔ Australia vs. England – Feb 22 (Lahore)
✔ South Africa vs. England – Mar 1 (Karachi)

Which team do you think will lift the Champions Trophy 2025? Let us know in the comments! 🏏🔥

Australia Arrives in Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as Excitement Builds

Khashif Sarfraz
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Australia Arrives in Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as Excitement Builds

The Australian cricket team arrived in Lahore on Monday ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19. Australia’s first match will take place on February 22 against England at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

Australia’s Arrival Details

The squad traveled in two groups:
✔ First group (including captain Steve Smith, coaches, and support staff) arrived from Colombo via Dubai.
✔ Second group (comprising 15 players and two support staff members) followed the same route, reaching Lahore later in the day.

Notable players in the squad include Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head, Matthew Short, and Adam Zampa.

🚫 No Warm-Up Matches: Australia opted out of warm-up games, having just played a two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which they lost 2-0.

Australia’s Champions Trophy Fixtures

📅 Feb 22: vs. England – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
📅 Feb 25: vs. South Africa – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
📅 Feb 28: vs. Afghanistan – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad 2025

🔹 Steve Smith (captain)
🔹 Sean Abbott
🔹 Alex Carey
🔹 Ben Dwarshuis
🔹 Nathan Ellis
🔹 Jake Fraser-McGurk
🔹 Aaron Hardie
🔹 Travis Head
🔹 Josh Inglis
🔹 Spencer Johnson
🔹 Marnus Labuschagne
🔹 Glenn Maxwell
🔹 Tanveer Sangha
🔹 Matthew Short
🔹 Adam Zampa
🔹 Travelling Reserve: Cooper Connolly

Record-Breaking Demand for India vs. Pakistan Tickets

The anticipation for the India-Pakistan clash on February 23 in Dubai has reached fever pitch!

✔ Tickets sold out in just one hour after release!
✔ Additional tickets sold out within 90 minutes due to overwhelming demand.
✔ Reports suggest 20,000 to 30,000 fans competed online to secure seats for the highly anticipated showdown.

🏏 With the tournament just days away, excitement is at an all-time high! Which team are you backing for Champions Trophy 2025?

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